ATP
Djokovic bulls his way into Shanghai semis
Novak Djokovic held on for another energy-sapping victory on Thursday, needing two chances to serve for a 6-3, 7-5 win over determined Belgian challenger Zizou Bergs to reach his 10th semi-final at the Shanghai Masters.
The four-time champion, aged 38, went through in just under two hours, making a narrow escape as Bergs broke him for 5-all while serving for a place in his 80th career semi at the Masters level.
The 25-time Grand Slam winner broke back and finally finished off the win on a third match point to move to a final four date with Monegasque Valentin Vacherot.
“I was just trying to stay alive on court to be honest,” Djokovic said. “Berg has a lot of firepower. I had to try and make him miss.
“I should have closed out the match (up a set and 5-4) but I was too passive.
“They’ve been challenging conditions these past few weeks. I’m just glad to overcome this hurdle.”
Djokovic managed just 11 winners but kept his unforced error count in check with 16.
Main photo:- Novak Djokovic celebrates in Shanghai – ATPTour.com